NHL 2023-24 bold predictions: Breakouts, bouncebacks, trades and the first 70-goal scorer since 1993

The NHL is in for an exciting 2023-24 season, and The Athletic’s NHL staff have made their bold predictions. Let’s dive into one prediction per team as the regular season gets underway.

Anaheim Ducks: Mason McTavish will emerge as a key player for the Ducks. With no captain since Ryan Getzlaf’s retirement, the Ducks are looking for a new leader. While Trevor Zegras could have a breakout season, the bold and realistic prediction is that McTavish, at just 20 years old, will make a significant impact as a two-way center and bring a Ryan O’Reilly-like presence to the team.

Arizona Coyotes: Nick Schmaltz will lead the team in scoring. While Logan Cooley and Clayton Keller have been receiving attention, Schmaltz has quietly been a consistent performer, averaging nearly a point per game in two injury-shortened seasons. With a clean bill of health, Schmaltz has a chance to surpass his previous career high of 59 points and challenge Keller for the team’s scoring title.

Boston Bruins: Jeremy Swayman will emerge as the number one goalie for the Bruins. Swayman has been steadily improving and has shown mental resilience, stepping up in Game 7 last year when Linus Ullmark faltered. While the Bruins will rotate goalies, Swayman’s performance will shine through, and he will prove himself worthy of the starting role come playoff time.

Buffalo Sabres: Don Granato will win the Jack Adams Award. If the Sabres can make the playoffs and end their lengthy postseason drought, Granato will be a strong contender for the prestigious coaching award. He has been instrumental in developing Buffalo’s young core, and the narrative of Granato leading the team to success will work in his favor.

Calgary Flames: Nazem Kadri will reach 90 points. After a well-deserved break, Kadri is healthy and ready to make an impact for the Flames. With a new offensive system implemented by coach Ryan Huska and power-play guru Marc Savard, Kadri will be a key player in the top six and on the power play, surpassing his previous season high of 87 points.

Carolina Hurricanes: Frederik Andersen will be a Vezina Trophy finalist. Despite injury struggles in the past, when healthy, Andersen is one of the NHL’s most successful goalies. After a disappointing regular season last year, he thrived in the playoffs. With capable backups in Antti Raanta and Pyotr Kochetkov, Andersen won’t have to carry the load alone and will limit his starts while still making a significant impact.

Chicago Blackhawks: Corey Perry will win over the Chicago fan base. Perry, known for his agitating play, has historically been a disliked figure in Chicago. However, when players like Perry join your team, they become easy to love. Perry’s scoring ability and leadership qualities will win over the fans, even though their initial reaction may be to reject him.

Colorado Avalanche: The Avalanche will win a Game 7. Colorado has struggled in Game 7 situations in recent years, but this season they will break that streak. With added depth to the roster, the Avalanche will overcome their previous disappointments and win a crucial Game 7. To add some spice, Nathan MacKinnon will score an overtime-winning goal in the game.

Columbus Blue Jackets: Patrik Laine will return to 40-goal production. Laine, now playing as a center, is determined to prove himself with the Blue Jackets. Despite battling injuries, Laine has shown glimpses of his goal-scoring abilities in Columbus. This season, he will put it all together and increase his goal-scoring output, returning to the form he displayed in Winnipeg.

Dallas Stars: Miro Heiskanen will win the Norris Trophy. The Stars haven’t had a voter-based regular-season award winner in Dallas since 2003. Heiskanen had a breakout season last year, showcasing his offensive and defensive skills. With the Stars projected to be a top team this season, Heiskanen will receive more recognition and solidify himself as one of the league’s best defensemen.

Detroit Red Wings: Dylan Larkin will become a 40-goal scorer. While Alex DeBrincat brings proven goal-scoring ability to the Red Wings, it will be Larkin who reaches the 40-goal milestone. Opponents will focus on DeBrincat, creating opportunities for Larkin to capitalize on the attention and elevate his scoring abilities.

Edmonton Oilers: Connor McDavid will score 70 goals. McDavid continues to defy expectations, surpassing his career-high goal total last season. Despite the expected statistical regression, McDavid will continue to be a dominant force on the ice, scoring at an elite rate. His combination of skill, speed, and scoring ability will propel him to new heights.

These bold predictions add excitement and intrigue to the upcoming NHL season. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if these predictions come to fruition and if players can surpass expectations.

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Sarah Anderson

Sarah Anderson dives into the fast-paced world of NHL hockey. Her coverage includes game analysis, player spotlights, and the latest news from the ice. Sarah’s dedication to the sport ensures that hockey enthusiasts stay informed about the NHL’s thrilling action.